An associate degree is a two-year degree that usually takes 60 semester credit hours or around 20 classes. With an associate degree, you can head straight into the workforce or continue with your education by transferring into a bachelor degree program.
The typical associate degree program consists of courses directly related to your chosen specialization, general education courses and some electives or any course of your choosing. With an associate degree you will be prepared for a number of fast-growing jobs in today’s economy. Your earning potential is 21% greater with an associate degree than with a high school diploma.
There are two types of associate degrees:
- Occupational Associate Degree
- The Occupational Associate degree is a course of study that prepares you to go directly into the workforce upon completing the degree program.
- Transfer Associate Degree
- The Transfer Associate Degree is a course of study for the purpose of transferring the completed associate degree program credits towards a bachelor’s degree program.
In addition to traditional colleges and universities you can find associate degree programs at community, technical and vocational schools as well as online.
Some top associate degree programs include Web Design and Radiology.
